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Dred Scott, Cali Mambo (Ropeadope Records) 9/20 Dred Scott’s musical journey has been a whirlwind of exploration. From collaborating with iconic artists like Liza Minelli and Nina Hagen to holding down a decade-long residency at New York’s Rockwood Music Hall, Dred has carved a unique path as a restless musical spirit. In recent years, he traded the frenetic energy of the clubs for the polished elegance of acclaimed restaurants, but his passion for the pulsating rhythms of Latin jazz never faded. This new project marks his much-anticipated return to the vibrant world of jazz clubs. Joining Dred on this journey are three seasoned musicians, each a master in their own right. Vibraphonist Tom Beckham boasts a dedicated following and critical acclaim for his “unique voice.” Dred is “a disciple of psychedilc subterfuge, coupled with post-cool intensity, ” (SF Weekly). Percussionist Moses Patrou brings a wealth of international experience, drawing on the rich rhythmic traditions of the Caribbean and South America. Rounding out the group is bassist Matt Pavolka, a fixture of the New York scene for over 25 years, known for his collaborations with Lee Konitz and others. Latin jazz boasts a rich history, and Dred has a personal connection to its evolution. He pays homage to the genre’s pioneers like Mario Bauza, who’s credited with inventing Latin jazz in the 40s, and Dizzy Gillespie, whose collaboration with Chano Pozo on Manteca in 1946 ignited the genre’s explosion. Dred vividly recalls the vibrant Latin jazz scene he encountered in San Francisco, where he learned to play montunos on piano from the legendary Josh Jones. Inspired by the work of pianist George Shearing, whose Latin jazz recordings between 1957 and 1961 prominently featured the vibraphone, Dred assembled this group to recreate that sound and explore his own love for the genre. Cali Mambo: We kick off the album with “Cali Mambo, ” a scorcher by George Shearing from his 1958 album Latin Lace. This infectiously simple tune, built on just two chords, perfectly captures the essence of the band’s sound – tight, playful, and bursting with Latin energy. It was also the first song we learned together, a testament to its immediate appeal. Shearing’s “Latin Lace” was a pivotal recording in the 50s, showcasing the growing popularity of Latin rhythms and melodies being integrated into jazz arrangements. Star Eyes: This jazz standard gets a Latin makeover! Charlie Parker made “Star Eyes” famous in the bebop era of the 1940s, and it remains a staple in the jazz repertoire today. The George Shearing group, known for their lush and sophisticated sound, often incorporated standards on their albums, creating a bridge between the familiar melodies of jazz and the infectious energy of Latin rhythms. Here, we follow suit, showcasing the genre’s rich tapestry. Poinciana: This beloved song’s origins are shrouded in mystery – some say it’s inspired by a Cuban folk song called “La Cancion del Arbol, ” others claim it’s a straight-up rip-off. Whatever the case, it became a signature tune for pianist Ahmad Jamal in the 1950s. We took on the challenge of crafting a fresh arrangement, one that respects the original’s beauty while adding our own unique twist. La Enganadora: Feeling nostalgic? This traditional Cuban number by Enrique Jorrin comes straight from the debut album of the legendary Ruben Gonzalez. Jorrin, a pivotal figure in Cuban music, is considered one of the founders of “charanga, ” a genre characterized by the use of violins and a distinctive flute melody. This faithful rendition of “La Enganadora” lets the song’s infectious rhythms transport you to a sun-drenched Havana street corner, a testament to the deep roots of Latin jazz. Danza Cubana #2: This mysterious gem emerged from the depths of our musical explorations. While the exact origin remains unknown, one thing’s for sure – its slow, sultry tempo provides a welcome contrast to the album’s more energetic offerings. “Danza Cubana” translates to “Cuban Dance, ” and these slower tempos were a staple in Cuban dance music, offering a chance for couples to showcase their skills in a more romantic setting. Guachi Guaro: Calling all vibraphone enthusiasts! This iconic Cal Tjader tune is a must-know for any player, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Literally translating to “soul sauce, ” “Guachi Guaro” lives up to its name, delivering a potent dose of rhythmic energy and soulful improvisation. Cal Tjader, a vibraphonist and bandleader, was a major force in the popularization of Latin jazz in the 1960s and 70s. His infectious grooves and focus on melody made him a fan favorite. You and the Night and the Music: We add a touch of sophistication with this jazz standard, featuring a playful nod to the great J.S. Bach in the intro. This timeless tune showcases the band’s versatility and ability to swing effortlessly between tradition and exciting exploration. Standards like this one formed the foundation of jazz improvisation, and incorporating them into a Latin jazz repertoire highlights the genre’s connection to its jazz roots. Lulu: This heartfelt ballad is a personal dedication from Dred Scott to his daughter, Lucy, affectionately nicknamed “Lulu.” The melody is a simple, yet charming exploration of the two syllables “Lu, ” and the upcoming exotica-inspired remix adds a playful layer with a chorus chanting “lu-lu-lu.” Sing along in your head or wait for the full effect – either way, prepare to be touched. Manteca: We close the album with a bang! Dizzy Gillespie’s “Manteca” is a landmark recording, widely considered the first major Latin jazz hit in 1946. This high-octane number, featuring a blistering Afro-Cuban groove and is a celebration of the genre’s infectious energy and a fitting tribute to its pioneering spirit. This album is a celebration of Dred Scott’s return to one of his musical roots and a testament to the enduring power of Latin jazz. Players: Instrument DRED SCOTT – PIANO TOM BECKHAM – VIBRAPHONE MATT PAVOLKA – BASS MOSES PATROU - PERCUSSION Track Credits: 1. CALI MAMBO 4:33 (George Shearing) 2. STAR EYES 6:29 (Gene de Paul/Don Raye) 3. POINCIANA 5:39 (traditional/Nat Simon) 4. LA ENGAÑADORA 3:53 (Enrique Jorrin) 5. DANZA CUBANA #2 3:31 (Ignacio Cervantes) 6. GUACHI GUARO 4:41 (Dizzy Gillespie/Chano Pozo) 7. YOU AND THE NIGHT AND THE MUSIC 4:15 (Schwartz/Dietz) 8. LULU 4:47 (Dred Scott) 9. MANTECA 4:48 (Gillespie/Pozo/Fuller) Artist: Dred Scott Album: Cali Mambo Label: Ropeadope Records Add Date: September 23, 2024 Street Date: September 20, 2024 Artist Website: dredscott.com Available at all fine retailers |
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